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Having Hernia Surgery: Patch Repair

Surgery treats a hernia by fixing the weakness in the belly (abdominal) wall. An incision is made so the surgeon has a direct view of the hernia. The repair is then done through this cut (open surgery). To fix the defect, special mesh materials are used to patch the weak area. They make a “tension-free repair.” Follow your healthcare provider’s advice on how to get ready for the procedure. You can often go home the same day as your surgery. In some cases, though, you may need to stay in the hospital overnight.

Getting ready for surgery

Your healthcare provider will talk with you about getting ready for surgery. Follow all the instructions you’re given. Be sure to:

Tell your healthcare provider about any medicines, supplements, or herbs you take. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter items.

Plan to have an adult family member or friend give you a ride home after surgery.

Stop smoking. Smoking affects blood flow and can slow healing. Smoking can also raise your risk for problems from anesthesia and surgery.

Gently wash the surgical spot the night before surgery.

Follow any directions you are given for not eating or drinking before surgery.

Repair in Front

Repair in front

Repair in Back

Repair in back

Combination Repair

Combination repair

The day of surgery

Be at the hospital or surgical center at your scheduled time. You’ll be asked to change into a gown. You’ll then be given an IV for fluids and medicine. Shortly before surgery, an anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist will talk with you. He or she will explain the types of medicine used to prevent pain during surgery. You will have one or more of these:

Monitored sedation to make you relaxed and sleepy

Local anesthesia to numb the surgical site

Regional anesthesia to numb specific parts of your body

General anesthesia to let you sleep during surgery

During the surgery

Most hernias are treated using “tension-free” repairs. This surgery uses special mesh materials to fix the weak area. Unlike traditional repairs, the tissue around the muscle that gives strength to the belly wall isn’t solely sewn together. Instead, the mesh covers the weak area like a patch. This fixes the defect without “tension” on the muscles. It also makes it less likely to happen again. The mesh is made of strong, flexible plastic that stays in the body. Over time, nearby tissues grow into the mesh to strengthen the repair.

After surgery

When the procedure is over, you’ll be taken to the recovery area to rest. Your blood pressure and heart rate will be watched. You’ll also have a bandage over the surgical site. To help ease discomfort, you’ll be given pain medicines. You may also be given breathing exercises to keep your lungs clear. Later, you’ll be asked to get up and walk. This helps prevent blood clots in the legs. You can go home when your healthcare provider says you’re ready.